As a newly engaged couple, Jules and Shay have a lot to look forward to: a destination wedding, starting fertility treatments and the potential of buying a home. But their goals have a short horizon, are they able to save enough to accomplish three large milestones within a five-year period? In this episode, Jules and Shay sit down with Carolina, a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor to discuss short- and long-term savings strategies, utilizing company benefits and how their families can help them save for a down payment . For more information about this episode and the topics covered, check out our episode page and explore how you can connect with a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor . Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. 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Tom Mann's clear thoughts about scripture. Making It Clear is a product of Tom’s daily study. Making It Clear is a no nonsense approach to the basics of biblical teaching in a short easy to digest audio segment. Tom Mann’s background as a professional voice talent and media producer is combined with his many years as a Bible teacher/preacher creating a unique audio balance.
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My name is Tom. I’m just a guy doin my thing and recording the process. Hope you enjoy my story.
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Tags: #Faith #Encouragement #OvercomingFailure #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotional #IdentityInChrist #HopeInGod #MakingItClearDoor Tom Mann
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Door Tom Mann
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Episode Title: No Fear in God In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares a powerful reminder that fear and faith cannot live in the same heart. Drawing from Scripture, he explores how perfect love drives out fear and how trusting God’s character brings peace even in uncertain times. If you’ve ever wrestled with anxiety, worry, or the unkno…
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In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares the story of Balaam and his donkey from Numbers 22. The lesson is simple but powerful: if God can use a donkey, He can use anyone—or anything—for His purposes. The key is being willing and available. Discover how this timeless truth applies to your walk with Christ today. #BeTheDonkey #MakingItCle…
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God’s Purpose in You – You are not here by accident. Scripture tells us in Ephesians 2:10 that we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works prepared in advance for us. In this episode of Making It Clear, we’ll discover how God’s design, purpose, and calling are lived out through our everyday lives. Be encouraged—you were created…
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Being a spiritual leader is not easy. Too often, church leaders face grumbling over little things—like the carpet, the temperature, or disagreements among members. But Scripture gives us a better way. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13, Paul calls us to honor those who labor among us in the Lord. We can honor godly leadership by praying for our leaders, sh…
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“Loyalty” — Tom Mann shares how his faithful dog Bear points to a deeper truth about God’s own faithfulness. Proverbs 18:24 reminds us that Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, and Hebrews 13:5 promises that He will never leave or forsake us. Discover how God’s steadfast love offers the ultimate example of loyalty. #MakingItClear #Lo…
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Why are we shocked when the world acts like the world? Sinful behavior—falsehood, violence, rebellion—is the nature of fallen humanity. As 1 Corinthians 1:18 reminds us, “the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.” Only those who are spiritual can understand the things of the Spirit. In this episode, Tom Mann encourages bel…
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Big Hurts Some of the deepest wounds in life come not from enemies, but from those closest to us. Psalm 55 reveals how David faced betrayal and heartbreak, yet chose to cast his burden on the Lord. In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how God’s will is always stronger than our feelings—and how we can find strength, even in the middle…
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Cattle on a Thousand Hills Psalm 50 reminds us that God doesn’t need anything from us—He already owns it all: “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills.” True worship isn’t about outward obligation, but thanksgiving and surrender. In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how God’s ownership gives us perspecti…
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Humility isn’t weakness—it’s a surrendered strength that places our trust fully in God. In this episode of Making It Clear, we explore what it means to bow low before the Lord so He can lift us up. Drawing from 2 Chronicles 7:14 and James 4:10, we reflect on God’s promise to hear our prayers, heal our land, and carry the burdens we cannot bear on o…
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Refreshing Rain Seasons of life can feel like drought—dry, weary, and spiritually parched. But just as rain brings life to the land, God promises to bring His refreshing to our souls. In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares scriptures of encouragement from Proverbs, Acts, and Isaiah, reminding us that the Lord Himself is our source of r…
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By Faith Abraham Abraham’s life shows us what it means to trust God—even when the way forward doesn’t make sense. From leaving his home, to waiting on God’s promise, to offering Isaac on the altar, Abraham’s story reminds us: “The Lord will provide.” In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how Abraham’s faith can encourage us to trust G…
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It’s easy to complain about taxes, leaders, and politics. But Romans 13:1–7 reminds us that God establishes authority and calls us to live with respect, responsibility, and gratitude. In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how believers can balance faith, freedom, and attitude—even when it’s not easy. Tags: #Faith #Encouragement #Overc…
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In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann reflects on Paul’s words in Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” We’re not called to solve each other’s problems, but to walk alongside one another with grace, gentleness, and love. Discover how to strike the balance—carrying your own responsibilities while being…
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In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann explores the priceless gift of wisdom. Proverbs reminds us that wisdom is better than gold, and James describes it as pure, peace-loving, and full of mercy. True wisdom doesn’t come from striving or intellect—it comes from God, given generously to all who ask. Discover how divine wisdom can guide you thr…
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In Ask Before You Step, Tom shares the story of three kings who charged into battle without first seeking God—and nearly lost everything in the desert. It’s a reminder that our own plans may look good, but only God provides the water we need. Learn why trusting God’s timing and asking before you move makes all the difference. Tags: #Faith #Encourag…
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Life is full of chapters—some end abruptly, others fade quietly. In Turn Some Pages, I share how a simple phrase reminded me to trust God when one season of my life closed. Drawing from Isaiah 43:18-19, we’ll explore how God invites us to release the past, start small, and embrace the “new thing” He is doing. What we surrender, He restores—often in…
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In this heartfelt episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares his own experience—and that of family members—walking through trauma. He also reflects on the trauma David faced in the Bible and how David poured out his heart to God through the Psalms. Discover how turning to God in your pain can bring comfort, healing, and hope, no matter what you’ve…
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Are you the type who reads the instructions—or the type who just wings it? 📦😅 When it comes to our walk with God, His Word is the ultimate instruction manual for life. In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how Scripture sanctifies, guides, and equips us to grow in Christ. 📖✨ Tags: #Faith #Encouragement #OvercomingFailure #ChristianLiv…
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Dr. Stephen Olford once shared a story with Tom Mann about Billy Graham. Early in his ministry, Billy Graham was advised to fully trust in God and the working of the Holy Spirit—and he did. God aligned Billy Graham with His purpose: evangelism. Just as God had a unique plan for Billy Graham, He has a unique purpose for you. When you allow Him to re…
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Life is full of transitions—some we choose, others come unexpectedly. The good news? Transitions are temporary, and God promises to guide us through them. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding. Isaiah 26:3 promises perfect peace when we trust Him. And Philippians 4:6–7 assures us tha…
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💪 Source of Strength — Where do you turn when life wears you down? Relationships, work, or even self-reliance can only take us so far before they fail. Isaiah 40:30–31 reminds us that “those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” God Himself is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1-2). In this episode, Tom Mann points us back to the true…
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🌌 Light the Sky — Have you ever paused to look up at the stars and been reminded of God’s greatness? Psalm 19 tells us that the heavens declare the glory of God, and Psalm 147:4 says He knows the stars by name. If He knows them, how much more does He know and care for you? In this episode, Tom Mann reflects on the vastness of creation, God’s presen…
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Have you ever felt like you’re at the end of your rope? In Psalm 69:3, David cries out, “Save me, O God, I sink in deep mire.” In the middle of his despair, David turned to God. When we’re drowning in our own mistakes or weighed down by the pain others cause, we can do the same. Hope begins when we stop struggling and start leaning into Him. #Makin…
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Life feels like it keeps repeating itself — same struggles, same questions, just a different day. But God’s Word reminds us there’s meaning and purpose, even “under the sun.” 🌞 In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how the timeless wisdom of Scripture shows us that while life’s patterns may repeat, God is always ready to do a new thin…
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In When God Speaks, we look at the story of young Samuel in 1 Samuel 3—how God chose to reveal His word to a child who was willing to listen. Samuel’s simple response, “Speak Lord, for your servant hears,” challenges us today. Are we willing to stop, be quiet, and truly listen for God’s voice in our lives? His will is often revealed to those who ar…
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Isaiah 40:28–29 reminds us that the Lord is the everlasting God—He never grows tired or weary. When we feel weak, He is strong. When we have nothing left to give, He supplies the strength we need. Whatever you’re facing today, you don’t have to face it alone. God is ready to give you His power. #MakingItClear #TiredAndWeary #Isaiah40 #StrengthInGod…
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✝️ Real Life — Galatians 2:20 reminds us that to truly live in Christ, something in us must die: our self, our way, our will. When we surrender and let Him lead, life is no longer about “my way” but about His way. God isn’t our copilot—He is our pilot. #MakingItClear #RealLife #Galatians220 #ChristInMe #DieToSelf #FaithJourney #ChristOurPilot #Dail…
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Colossians 3:22–24 reminds us to work as unto the Lord, remembering that ultimately, we serve Christ, not men. Whether we’re employees or employers, Scripture calls us to keep a Christ-like attitude in all we do. Colossians 4:1 challenges those in authority to be kind and fair, while 1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us that whatever we do, we should do …
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My Rights, My Way — True liberty in Christ isn’t about demanding our own way but about serving others in love. Romans 14:1 and 1 Corinthians 10 remind us that our freedom comes with responsibility. We are called to put others first, to walk in love, and to use our liberty as a way to point people to Jesus. #MakingItClear #MyRightsMyWay #ChristianLi…
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Life can feel like a pressure cooker, and when stress builds, it’s tempting to lash out in anger. But God’s Word reminds us to respond differently. James 1:19–20 calls us to be quick to listen and slow to anger. Proverbs 16:32 teaches that true strength is found in self-control, not rage. In this episode, Tom Mann shares how walking with Christ dai…
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In Ultimate Sacrifice, Tom Mann reminds us that only Jesus—God in the flesh—could pay the sin debt once and for all. Our good works cannot compare to the cross. As believers, our response is to live as a living sacrifice, following Him and obeying out of love. Jesus paid it all. #MakingItClear #UltimateSacrifice #JesusPaidItAll #LivingSacrifice #Fa…
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Out of the Mouth – Luke 6:45 reminds us that our words reveal what’s in our hearts. As Christians, are we called to use foul language? Scripture gives a clear answer. Romans 12:14, James 3, and Colossians 3 all tell us to put off filthy language and instead use our words to bless, not curse. On this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann shares how w…
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Galatians 5:16–17 reminds us that when we walk by the Spirit, we won’t gratify the desires of the flesh. But walking in the Spirit isn’t just a nice phrase—it’s a daily practice, a calling, and sometimes a battle. In this episode, Tom Mann shares how we can lean on the strength of the Spirit, take intentional steps in faith, and grow in living out …
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Brothers and Sisters – Loving our brothers and sisters in Christ isn’t always easy, but it is our calling. As children of the King, we are part of one family, and God commands us to love one another with respect and grace. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us that in Christ, we are new creations—united in Him and called to live differently. In this episod…
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Sometimes the deepest faith doesn’t come from degrees or credentials—it comes from a life lived close to God. In this episode, Tom Mann reflects on lessons from his grandfather’s simple, steadfast faith and considers important questions: What about those who don’t fully understand? What about those who have never even heard of God? Scripture remind…
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Ask God Why? – Life doesn’t always make sense, and sometimes the only word we can muster is “why?” The good news is, God welcomes our honest questions. Romans 8:26 reminds us that the Spirit helps us when words fail, and Matthew 7:7-8 assures us that those who ask, receive. God isn’t afraid of our questions—He’s waiting for us to bring them to Him.…
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In Spoiled by His Grace, Tom Mann reflects on the goodness of our Heavenly Father, who gives us far more than we deserve. If we, as imperfect people, know how to bless our children, how much more will God pour out His grace upon us? Even in the middle of life’s messes, His hand is at work—bringing beauty out of brokenness and weaving all things tog…
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In Recurrent Pain, we explore what happens when old wounds resurface—emotionally, spiritually, or even physically. Paul, in 2 Corinthians 7:5-6, openly shared his struggles with conflict, fear, and hardship. Yet, in the middle of his pain, God brought comfort. Psalm 147:3 reminds us that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Instea…
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Water for Dry Land explores how, like trees with deep roots that thrive even in the dry season, believers can flourish when rooted in God’s Word and presence. Psalm 1:3 reminds us that walking closely with God makes us like a tree planted by streams of living water. Drawing from Isaiah 44:3–4, we see how the Holy Spirit refreshes, strengthens, and …
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We are called to be conformed to the image of Christ. As we fix our eyes on Him, our hearts, minds, and actions begin to reflect His character. The Likeness of You is a reminder that true transformation comes from intimacy with Jesus—less of us, more of Him (Romans 8:29). #MakingItClear #TheLikenessOfYou #Romans829 #Christlikeness #Faith #DailyDevo…
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In a world full of people, it’s easy to feel unnoticed or overlooked. But God assures us that He hears, sees, and knows us personally—no matter how lost we might feel in the crowd. Drawing from Isaiah 43:2, Tom Mann shares the comforting truth that we are never hidden from God’s sight and never beyond His reach. #MakingItClear #SeaOfFaces #GodSeesY…
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In The Kingdom, we explore Jesus’ words that His kingdom is not of this world. The Kingdom of God is not just a distant place—it’s the very presence of the Holy Spirit within us. When we are born again, we enter His kingdom and begin living as citizens of heaven, even while on earth. Discover the depth and beauty of this kingdom life God offers. #K…
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You are not an accident. Before you took your first breath, God knew you, formed you, and gave you purpose. In this episode, Tom Mann reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made—crafted by God with intentionality and love. From the womb to the present, your life has meaning. Stand in your calling, because God’s purpose for you was written…
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Jeremiah 33 reminds us that even in the darkest places—like Jeremiah’s captivity—God hears, speaks, and answers. In this episode, Tom Mann reflects on how God invited Jeremiah to call on Him, and how He makes the same invitation to us today. When we seek Him in spirit and in truth, He promises to reveal His will and respond. God is never out of rea…
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Isaiah 26:3 reminds us that perfect peace is found when our minds are steadfast—fixed on God. In this episode, Tom Mann shares how what we choose to focus on shapes our peace. When we trust God and keep our thoughts centered on Him, we can experience calm in the middle of chaos. God wants our focus—because He knows that’s where peace begins. #Makin…
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When the foundation isn’t built right, the cracks go deep—and they’re hard to fix. But when Jesus is your foundation, life’s cracks are not the end of the story. In this episode, Tom Mann shares how a solid spiritual foundation in Christ makes all the difference when trials come. It’s not about avoiding cracks—it’s about being rooted in the One who…
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🎧 “Home” What if the most important part of your spiritual life doesn’t happen in a church building—but in you? In this episode of Making It Clear, Tom Mann reflects on what Scripture really says about where God chooses to dwell. From John 14 to Psalm 145, we’re reminded that God desires to be close—so close, He wants to make His home in us. Before…
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God’s timing rarely matches our own, but it’s always perfect. In this episode, Tom Mann reflects on Isaiah 60:22 and the peace that comes from trusting in God’s sovereignty. When we feel like things are delayed or not going our way, it may actually be divine timing at work. Learn to wait well—and trust deeper. #MakingItClear #GodsTiming #TrustGod #…
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